Solo Coastal Traverse on Vancouver Island

Expedition Itinerary: Vancouver Island Coastal Traverse

Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse

Trip Duration: 6 days

Total Estimated Mileage: ~53 miles

Experience Level: advanced

Terrain Type: coastal

- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ~4000 ft

- Start and end trailhead: Cape Scott Trailhead, BC to Nootka Island Trailhead, BC

- GPS coordinates: 50.7685, -128.2327 (start), 49.6811, -126.6145 (end)

- Permits: Obtain through BC Parks website for North Coast Trail and Nootka Island Trail

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DAY 1: Cape Scott Trailhead to San Josef Bay

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +300 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail

- Terrain description: Forested paths with muddy sections

- Notable features or side quests: Visit San Josef Bay sea stacks

- Key water sources: Streams near the bay

- Campsite location: San Josef Bay Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Bears and cougars present

- Trail tip: Stay on marked trails to avoid delicate ecosystems

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DAY 2: San Josef Bay to Nissen Bight

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +400 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail

- Terrain description: Sandy beaches and rocky headlands

- Notable features or side quests: Explore tidal pools

- Key water sources: Nissen Creek

- Campsite location: Nissen Bight Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of high tide areas

- Trail tip: Monitor tidal schedules carefully

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DAY 3: Nissen Bight to Cape Sutil

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +600 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail

- Terrain description: Dense coastal forest and open headlands

- Notable features or side quests: Scenic views of the Pacific

- Key water sources: Seasonal streams

- Campsite location: Cape Sutil Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery rocks

- Trail tip: Wear sturdy footwear

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DAY 4: Cape Sutil to Shuttleworth Bight

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +800 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail

- Terrain description: Varied terrain with some steep sections

- Notable features or side quests: Beautiful secluded beach

- Key water sources: Streams along the trail

- Campsite location: Shuttleworth Bight Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Secure food from wildlife

- Trail tip: Pace yourself on ascents

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DAY 5: Shuttleworth Bight to Louie Bay

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +900 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: North Coast Trail

- Terrain description: Rocky shores and forested areas

- Notable features or side quests: Enjoy sunset views

- Key water sources: Louie Bay streams

- Campsite location: Louie Bay Campsite

- Wildlife or safety notes: Avoid disturbing wildlife

- Trail tip: Start early to complete before dusk

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DAY 6: Louie Bay to Nootka Island Trailhead

- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1000 ft

- Primary trail(s) used: Nootka Island Trail

- Terrain description: Mixed forest and rugged coastline

- Notable features or side quests: Historical sites

- Key water sources: Nearby creeks

- Campsite location: N/A

- Wildlife or safety notes: Water crossings may be challenging

- Trail tip: Prepare for a long final day

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CAMPSITE INTEL

- Camp names and elevation: San Josef Bay (sea level), Nissen Bight (sea level), Cape Sutil (sea level), Shuttleworth Bight (sea level), Louie Bay (sea level)

- Fire restrictions: Fires may be restricted; check current regulations

- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear-proof containers

- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Shuttleworth Bight

- Noise level or solitude factor: Generally quiet with occasional groups

- Nearest water source: Typically nearby streams or creeks

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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES

- Typical temps: 55-75°F in August

- Sun exposure: Sunniest on beaches, shady in forests

- Acclimatization tips: N/A, below 8,000 ft

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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)

List tailored to terrain and season

- Navigation tools (map, compass)

- Water filtration system

- Sunscreen and sunglasses

- First aid kit

- Fire starter and matches

- Pocket knife

- Headlamp with extra batteries

- Shelter system (tent, tarp)

- Insulating layers

- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)

Pro tips: Pack lightweight rain gear; use gaiters for muddy sections

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OPTIONAL UPGRADES

- Scenic side trips: Explore additional beach areas

- Photo-worthy moments: Cape Scott Lighthouse

- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Local seafood in nearby towns

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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY

- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours

- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early rise, rest at sunset

- Estimated calories burned per day: ~2500 calories

- Water needed per person: ~3-4 liters

- Recommended pack weight range: 30-35 lbs

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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.

Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.